Hassle-free software to speed-up Windows!
So how do we go about speeding-up Windows I hear you cry! What about a major overhaul of the hardware followed up with CPU and RAM overclocking the to the point of destruction. That’d do the trick, though blaming sluggish performance on just hardware performance is not the way forward, instead Windows itself could well be sending a subtile hint for some TLC!
In our testing labs we’re in the process of sampling several commercial and well known free software tools laying claim to optimise Windows, making it run quicker and fix scores of stability issues. Is this just all smoke and mirrors or actually possible to speed-up Windows using these applications? In issue 257 (on sale 30th August) we’ll reveal the truth, and in the meantime have a sift through our extensive handpicked selection of the optimisation solutions.
Follow these links for our other ‘issue 257′ web packs:
PC Format’s guide to alternative free operating systems!
Issue 257 game demo roundup!
Advanced SystemCare Free
This neat little ’CareWare’ is simple to use with a comprehensive set of services to keep your PC running at maximum efficiency. You can let it run automated checks and its handy Performance Monitor uses a grading system to let you know when things are slowing down, then prompts you with suggestions to remedy the dip in performance. (free version)
Download from here
AutoRuns
AutoRuns shows you everything that runs automatically, in the order Windows loads them. Stopping something from running is as simple as unchecking the box, and you can save AutoRun profiles to be used another time; particularly useful if you’re not sure what’s causing the slowdown as Windows starts up. (free version)
Download from here
CleanMem
Using the task scheduler, CleanMem periodically dumps all processes’ memory usage, allowing active tasks to run more efficiently by using the memory liberated from background processes. Simple, no? (free version)
Download from here
Defraggler
Install an SSD drive and you’ll certainly notice a significant speed boost within Windows. For everybody else sticking to good old mechanical hard drives, defragmenting the files is the primary option to maintaining optimum data transfer. Defraggler is a reliable freeware application that can be set to an automated schedule. (free version)
Download from here
Game Fire
If, like me, you resent having to spend several hundreds of pounds every 6 months to keep your PC games-proof, then this open-source program will be a surefire hit. By allowing you to customise numerous Windows options, control which processes are running and even defragment your gaming folders, this will allow the thrifty PC gamer to squeeze every last drop of performance from their out-of-date rig. (free version)
Download from here
GIGATweaker
GIGATweaker does exactly what it says in it’s name… Well, the Tweaker part anyway. Take back control of your Windows experience safely, as GIGATweaker lets you change only the useful stuff and keeps you informed about what is being changed. Customise, optimise, tweak and fiddle, all safe in the knowledge that even YOU can’t mess anything up! (free version)
Download from here
Revo Uninstaller
Unused applications aren’t a good thing so get rid of them with Revo Uninstaller. This utility is superior to Windows Add/Remove where often redundant files, folders and registry entries are left to clutter the drive and registry. Revo digs around and removes all these rogue junk files. (free version)
Download from here
Startup Delayer
Startup Delayer reduces boot startup times by delaying applications from starting as soon as you log onto your computer. When your computer is idle after the boot sequence is complete it will allow those delayed applications to launch. (free version)
Download from here
TweakNow PowerPack 2011
This cleaner/optimiser covers most bases; you’ll find a junk file and registry cleaner, registry defragmenter, Startup Mananger, RAM optimiser, and Internet tracks killer. They’ve also dropped in some interesting Windows tweaking features so you can customise such things as hiding control panels and specific Start Menu applications. More oddly, under another tab you’ll discover auto shutdown timer and virtual desktops. Nevertheless, the software is easy to use and doesn’t seem at all cluttered with these additional bundled functions. (free version)
Download from here
WinPatrol
How’s this for an idea, rather than trying to fix slowdowns, just prevent them from occuring in the first place! Problem being knowing what hidden junk is being installed, or already running in the background is often hidden from you. Say hello to WinPatrol and Scotty the virtual dog. Don’t fear he’s not annoying like the paperclip guy. WinPatrol operates in the systemtray alerting you to any new unusual activity, giving you the option to allow or deny it from running. For other background startup programs, WinPatrol allows you selectivity disable any of these; paid users get the additional feature of detailed information of what each of these often unidentifiable files really are. (free version)
Download from here
Wise Registry Cleaner Free
Caution is advised with all registry cleaning software, as much good as they do, it’s just as possible to break something in the same instance. Which is why post-scan you are shown a list of everything picked up, giving you the power to remove items from being changed. Take time and only approve registry changes you are certain of. For added security Wise Registry Cleaner can backup and restore the registry, so be sure to do so beforehand. (free version)
PC Format magazine today
Or, grab a single issues of PC Format magazine
or single issues of the digital edition of PC Format magazine
Posted on Thursday, August 4th, 2011 at 6:15 am under Web Packs. You can subscribe to comments. You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.
Tags: Splash Damage
